NetComm NP5400 - Manual (Page 23)

Rev. 1 - YML668 www.netcomm.com.au
NP5400 11g Wireless Access Point User Guide Page 23
Appendix A: Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to problems usually encountered during the installation and
operation of the Access Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Access Point act as my DHCP Server?
No. The Access Point is nothing more than a wireless hub, and as such cannot be configured to
handle DHCP capabilities.
Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?
This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over a network.
Consult the application's user guide to determine if it supports operation over a network.
Can I play multiplayer games with other users of the wireless network?
Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area network). Refer to the
game's user guide for more information.
What are Ad-hoc and Infrastructure modes?
An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is a group of computers, each with a WLAN adapter, connected as an
independent wireless LAN. An Ad-hoc wireless LAN is applicable when no AP is available or
you wish to run a private network not joined to the corporate network.
An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an Infrastructure configuration. Infrastructure is
applicable to enterprise scale for wireless access to a wired network via an AP.
What is Roaming?
Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continuously while moving
freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a single Access Point. Before using the
roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel number as the
Access Point of the dedicated coverage area.
To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a number of different
functions. Each node and Access Point, for example, must always acknowledge receipt of each
message. Each node must maintain contact with the wireless network even when not actually
transmitting data. Achieving these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking
technology that links Access Points and nodes. In such a system, the user's end node undertakes
a search for the best possible access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal
strength and quality, as well as the message load currently being carried by each Access Point
and the distance of each Access Point to the wired backbone. Based on that information, the
node next selects the right Access Point and registers its address. Communications between end
node and host computer can then be transmitted up and down the backbone.
As the user moves on, the end node's RF transmitter regularly checks the system to determine
whether it is in touch with the original Access Point or whether it should seek a new one. When
a node no longer receives acknowledgment from its original Access Point, it undertakes a new
search. Upon finding a new Access Point, it then re-registers, and the communication process
continues.